What REI Co-op Staff Is Giving This Year

Why have a closet full of jackets when there’s a single, versatile, insulated hoodie ready to go wherever you are? The Atom Insulated from Arc'teryx packs performance-focused design into a sleek, packable layer that weighs less than a pound and can keep up on the trail, on your bike or dashing through the airport.  

"The Atom is my go-to jacket for all fall and spring activities," says Elizabeth N., a Green Vest at the REI store in Atlanta. "The jacket construction lets you have unrestricted movement for active sports but build in a very fashion way for going out to dinner with friends, or the one jacket that you take for traveling. I have this hoody for about 8 plus years now and take it with me for many climbing trips and morning bike rides during the fall season."

Some clogs are made for indoor or around-camp activities, and others are built to handle off-road adventure, too. The Mountain clogs from Bedrock Sandals are comfy enough for everyday strolls, but the secret sauce is their rugged, trail-ready outsoles paired with a secure, three-point-adjustable closure that lets you step freely without slipping out.

"I wear these constantly because they give my wide feet room to breathe while still feeling secure," says Kimmie H., a Green Vest at an REI store in Illinois. "The Vibram® Megagrip sole is the standout feature, making them a great pick for someone who wants one shoe that can handle camp, errands, and uneven terrain. Great for thru-hikers, car campers, van-lifers and anyone bouncing between the mountains and town.” Other versions: Available with leather suede uppers and synthetic suede uppers. 

Things we’d tell our younger selves that they’d never believe: Socks are a great gift, especially when they’re so comfortable you practically don’t even notice them. The Hiker Micro crews offer Goldilocks-approved cushioning to prevent worn-out feet. Their durable merino blend fabric means they won’t wear out in the middle of a long hike, either. 


"I test a lot of hiking footwear, and I've had two pairs of Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew socks that have lasted me through several years and who knows how many pairs of hikers and trail-runners," says Ever M., hike editor for Expert Advice and Uncommon Path. "They're super comfy, never get eaten by my shoes (a huge pet peeve) and are in heavy rotation in my house."

Staying even a little more hydrated is better for you than not drinking anything at all, and this vacuum-insulated bottle can help you get extra ounces in. Leakproof, dishwasher-safe and backed by the Hydro Flask lifetime warranty, this thermos keeps drinks cold for 24 hours or hot for 9, and is as cute as it is compact.

"Tiny bottle, ridiculous number of uses. It fits right into my small bag, so I can carry coffee, creamer, or a little drink without hauling around a full-size bottle," says Kimmie H., a Green Vest at an REI store in Illinois.

Down insulation is ultrawarm and featherlight (naturally), so the puffy Down Sweater from Patagonia is a great option for anyone who runs cold and packs minimally. Other versions: The Down Sweater is available with or without a hood, as a vest, as a parka, and in kids' and infants/toddlers' sizes. Shop the full Down Sweater collection.  

The top-selling Rainier waterproof jacket from REI Co-op is the rainy season hat trick: comfortable, durable and affordable. Its 2.5-layer construction effectively blocks wind and rain without trapping heat and sweat inside. It also holds up over years’ worth of hard use and is a great value at around $100—especially if you refuse to let precip get in the way of your plans. 

“I love the simple design; the silhouette is flattering without being too tight in any particular area,” says Oregon-based Christine C., SEO manager for REI Co-op. Christine has stayed dry in hers for over a year and a half in the wet Pacific Northwest weather during chores, gardening and outdoor adventures. Other versions: Also available in kids’ and infants’/toddlers’ sizes as well as matching rain pants. Shop the full Rainier collection.

Windchill doesn’t stand a chance against the 650 down jacket from REI Co-op. This recycled ripstop layer is windproof and water-resistant, weighs next to nothing and won’t break the bank—or your “giving the perfect gift” streak.  

“This is my go-to jacket for winter! It’s great for everything from running errands to a weekend hike," says Maddie S., a Green Vest at an REI store in Missouri. "The fact that it packs down into its pocket makes it especially great for traveling. I don't even bother bringing any jacket other than this one. Even on the coldest days, as long as I layer appropriately this jacket keeps me perfectly toasty warm.” Other versions: Available in kids' and infant/toddlers' sizes.

There’s a time and place for tapered, cargo-pocketed khaki—and other times you want to look like you walked out of the subway, not a guided safari tour. The latest Trailmade pants from REI Co-op strike a balance between fashion and function by combining moisture-wicking, abrasion-resistant materials in a modern, wider-legged silhouette that fits in both at the local pub and the nearest public land.  

"These pants are easily my favorite hiking pants ever," says Bella S., a sales and customer support representative for REI in Washington. "For pear-shaped people looking for a looser fit (and sun protection!), look no further—the Trailmade Barrel Pants are flattering, durable and very comfortable." Other versions: Shop the full Trailmade collection.

Not the barrel-leg type but know someone looking for a pair of hiking pants that straddle the line between getting outside and going out for dinner? The standard REI Co-op Trailmade pants might be the perfect fit. They’re technical enough to wear for long outings and stylish enough for the pre-hike workday—basically a BOGO. 

"As a petite girl, it's difficult to find pants in general that fit in length without tailoring. These do. They also fit looser in the thigh, which is a struggle to find in outdoor gear for women to begin with. But these fit a thicker thigh and small waist without a gap," says Christina M., an REI Co-op community moderation specialist. Other versions: Shop the full Trailmade collection.

Socks don’t scream “looking forward to warmer weather” the way a new paddle board might, but if you’ve got someone in your life who’s already marking their calendar with national park lottery dates and stocking up on sunscreen, some lightweight Smartwool socks might be the perfect addition to their plans. Body-mapped breathability and light cushioning combined with moisture-wicking and odor-resistant merino wool make this a great pair to reach for once the thaw is underway. 

“The Performance Hike Light socks are all I wear once the temps get warmer, especially if I'm wearing a heavier or waterproof boot. I get all the padding and none of the suffocation," says Ever M., hike editor for Expert Advice and Uncommon Path.

What’s cooler than cool? Cold, silly!  

Dad jokes aside, we think it’s cool to give the gift of perfectly chilled drinks, which makes this reusable YETI Rambler bottle a favorite to wrap (and fill). Its leakproof, lockable covered spout means nothing gets in or out unexpectedly, and double-wall vacuum insulation keeps your favorite liquid at the right temp for hours. (Note: Cold drinks only in this bottle; shop a Rambler mug for hot bevvies.)

“Lately, I've enjoyed loading up my water bottles with ice and water before bed. I love that this YETI bottle keeps my water cold throughout the night," says Sarah G., camp/backpack editor for Expert Advice and Uncommon Path. "No dings, dents or scuffs after two weeks of toting this bottle with me on road trips, errands, neighborhood walks and more. It even survived my dishwasher, which makes cleaning this bottle so much easier." Handwashing is equally straightforward, she says, because “it has very few ridged, rubber pieces that can trap moisture and lead to mold growth.” Other versions: Shop the full Rambler collection.

You know that person whose vibe puts the whole room at ease? They deserve shoes that will do the same. The classic Boston Birkenstock clogs’ soft cork footbeds that conform to the shape of your feet, and the supple leather or suede uppers soften with extended wear and they will definitely be worn extensively. 

"These started as my active-recovery shoes and somehow became my everywhere shoes," says REI Co-op Green Vest Kimmie H. from Illinois. I have wide feet, and after a long hike, trail run or work shift, that roomy fit and molded footbed is exactly what my tired feet want. They’re great for commuters, travelers, college students and anyone who lives in comfort." Other versions: Shop the full Boston collection.

Taking a digital photo without being bombarded by missed calls, group texts or a burst of blue light isn’t a thing of the past anymore. The compact, rechargeable and screen-free cam from Camp Snap operates as easily as a disposable point-and-shoot with a 35 mm–equivalent lens. Also, it can hold around 2,000 images (and take about 500 of them on a single charge). Download the pics with a USB-C cable and add them to your photo roll—or go really old-school and print ‘em out.  

"I've given this camera as a birthday present to multiple friends and family members, and it has been warmly received every time," says Leslie K., a program manager on the REI digital merchandising team. "People love the screen-free experience, allowing them to be present during everyday moments."

Rainy days at camp, snow days at home or any random weeknight calls for a game of UNO from Mattel. Up to 10 players try to shed their whole hand of cards while throwing out strategy plays like the reverse, skip, draw two or (new!) customizable “wild” cards. Winner gets an extra s’more? 

"Instant vibe check: Whip out a pack of UNO cards at camp and anyone who doesn't immediately smile is on the 'maybe' list for the next round of invites," says Ever M., hike editor for Expert Advice and Uncommon Path, whose competitive side only comes out when playing UNO.

You can compromise with your camping buddies on a lot of things, but good coffee isn’t one of them. This durable, easy-to-use stovetop brewer from Miir makes espresso-strength coffee in around 5 minutes—and enough of it to share—on a camp or home stove or induction range.  

"I love this for a fast and elegant way to make coffee at home or outdoors," says Cass D., run and cycle editor for Expert Advice and Uncommon Path. "Pro tip: If you want the best cup, boil your water before you place it in the moka pot—that way you don't risk burning the coffee while it's over the flame."  

There’s always that friend who isn’t deterred by damp weather. Reward their determination with an Editors’ Choice Award–winning rain jacket from Patagonia. This comfort-first waterproof layer is in heavy rotation for multisport adventurers who don’t believe in letting the forecast wash out the day’s plans.  

"My Patagonia Torrentshell is my go-to rain gear for a variety of uses," says Green Vest Erica S., who works at an REI store in Colorado. "This is the jacket I pack for almost any trip to have protection from the elements and works for many uses. This jacket folds nicely into a pack for emergencies and can also look sleek enough to use in the city as well as the trail." Other versions: Available in kids’ sizes.

The next-best thing to graduating to a big-kid bed is opening your first sleep-under-the-stars kit. This kids’ camping bundle from REI Co-op has everything your junior adventurer needs to settle in for a cozy night outdoors. (Just don’t forget their favorite stuffie, or nobody will get any rest).  

“This [REI Co-op Kindercone 25] kept my son warm and comfortable on a chilly camping trip," says Leslie K., a program manager on the REI Co-op digital merchandising team. "It's easy to pack and has become a reliable choice for both family camping adventures and sleepovers.”

At REI, we’re always down to dig into the nitty-gritty of binoculars or debate the ideal pocket configuration of a daypack. But sometimes it’s nice to keep things simple. That’s what the function-first Trailmade Fleece Jacket from REI Co-op does best. “[It’s] a no-brainer mid layer,” says Paolo M., divisional vice president of partnerships, content and community at REI. He's grabbed the jacket for alpine starts and cold mornings spent boating and fishing. “The midweight fleece has a nice next-to-skin touch in a traditional fit that provides necessary warmth on cold outings and also looks good for local errands.”  

The Trailmade fleece’s insulating prowess pairs with a touch of LYCRA® spandex for stretch on the cuffs and hem, plus two exterior, zippered hand pockets and two interior drop pockets. The fit is comfortably relaxed but “easy to throw a raincoat over if needed,” says one Pennsylvania-based customer-reviewer. Those who want a bit more flair will find it in the bold rustic gold or women’s-only, foliage-inspired woodlands wisp gray colorway. 
 

Give them something they’ll ReEmber for a lifetime with these indoor-outdoor slip-ons from Teva. The quilt-stitched, recycled synthetic/textile uppers are like little sleeping bags for your feet, while durable rubber outsoles let you visit neighboring tents or make a midnight bathroom run without feeling every rock or stick underfoot.  

Expert Advice and Uncommon Path camp and backpack editor Sarah G. has put hers through the wringer. Even after four years, she’s constantly reaching for them. “I slip them on after a day of skiing, and my feet welcome them like a long-overdue hug,” she says. “I pack them in the car to slip on after long backpacking trips, and I wear them at camp on car-camping trips. I even wear them to get the mail,” she adds.

Those who lived through them may not have expected to feel nostalgic for the 2000s, but honestly some of the styles were pretty baller. The North Face knows: The cropped and cozy women’s and relaxed-fit men’s Yumiori Off Peak jacket will stand the test of time and chilly weather. When a flannel isn’t enough but a coat is overkill, this half-zip layer will be their forever go-to. 

"It's stylish and reminds me of a similar fleece I had in middle school (circa 2004)," says Taylor H., manager of social media for REI Co-op. "The fleece has ‘aged’ well in a way that still looks cool and cozy."
 

Your pets can’t always come with you, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want the full experience. That’s why even indoor pets deserve a Tiny Tents Tiny Half Dome tent. Just like the full-size version, this wee shelter’s the perfect place to take a nap, play games or hide from the rest of the world.  

"Despite being a big boy, [my cat] can squeeze himself in it just fine. It gives him a place to hide from his sister and the rest of the world when he's stressed out," says Jeanie M., a Green Vest at an REI store in Washington. The Tiny Tent is SUCH a good gift for cats, especially those who like enclosed spaces. Plus, it's cuter than the cardboard boxes I have strewn about for them."

Car campers, we know you love luxury—great coffee included. That’s why you should always make space for a Rambler French press from YETI. This brewer can caffeinate a crowd, stand up to the usual camp chaos and keep the early crew’s brew hot  for the later risers. 

Ah, the eternal endurance equation: energy or electrolytes? With the Bloks Energy Chews from Clif, you get the best of both in a variety of great-tasting flavors. The easy-open and easy-to-chop squares let you mix and match caffeinated and extra-sodium flavors on the go, depending on your needs and athletic dreams.  

“They’re great, fast energy. You can eat them while you’re riding or running; pretty lightweight, very packable,” says Nicole C., a longtime Green Vest at an REI Co-op store in Washington.

Keep your ears open without missing a single drop of the beat: The OpenRun Pro 2 headphones from Shokz use bone-conduction technology to transmit sound, leaving you better able to pay attention to your surroundings (and nature) on your run, ride or walk. Comfortable ear hooks and low vibrations mean you can wear these for the long haul.  

“I bought these while training for the 2025 NYC Marathon and was super impressed with the quality. These headphones live up to the hype! The long battery life and water/sweat resistance made long runs on Midwest trails so much more enjoyable,” says Cooper H., an Iowa-based senior digital product manager for REI Co-op.

Your favorite runner deserves a day—or a season—off. Encourage them with a pair of buttery- soft joggers from Vuori and a reminder that rest is a necessary part of training, too.

These goggles from goodr have everything you’d expect from a pricier pair—antifog venting, UV protection and a magnetic lens system—all in a good-looking package for $100.   

“I log at least 50 ski days per season, and the Peak G are always in my ski bag," says Heather R., a Colorado-based editor for Expert Advice and Uncommon Path. "They fit well, they look slick, they have decent venting (especially considering the price point), and you even get a low-light lens. Bottom line: you get a lot for a reasonable price, so what's not to like?”

When you don’t have to give your jacket a second thought, you have more fun on the slopes. That’s why there’s always a Nano Puff from Patagonia on our “best for the lift” gift list.  

In fact, REI staff love this layer so much it's almost the unofficial uniform around these parts. "Everyone in our family owns Nano Puff jackets that have lasted us for years," says Phuong L., the Expert Advice and Uncommon Path managing editor based in wet and chilly Seattle. The giftee on your list will appreciate this jacket's warmth-to-weight ratio, packability and that it keeps you warm even when wet. Other versions: Available in kids' and infants'/toddlers'.

Give your favorite always-cold adventurer the comfy base layer of their dreams from Smartwool. This isn’t your grandma’s scratchy, old wool: This top’s made with super-fine, cozy merino wool fibers (which regulate body temps and resist odors) and chafe-free flatlock seam construction.

"Hands down, this is the base layer that I wear the most," says Expert Advice and Uncommon Path editor Heather R. in Colorado. "It doesn't have a ton of bells and whistles, but that's what I love about it. It's comfortable, it moves well, and it keeps me dry and warm on the ski slopes and the trail."